In fact, since many other bird species share several of the same characteristics that help ducks to float, such as a waterproofing gland and hollow bones, these species should theoretically float as well. This same lightness helps birds like ducks to float (and fly). The hollow bones are strong yet incredibly light, allowing them to lift off the ground with ease. You may already know that hollow bones help flying birds like cardinals and hawks achieve flight. The sacs, which include the duck’s lungs and are located along the length of the duck’s central body, are the equivalent of having miniature helium balloons inside.įinally, ducks, like many other bird species, also possess hollow bones. They keep these sacs filled with air unless they want to dive under the water, at which point they squeeze the air out. They trap the air again soon after resurfacing and shaking off.ĭucks also have a system of internal air sacs that helps to keep them buoyant.

If they need to dive underwater for a quick snack, they just squeeze the air out by pressing in their feathers.

You know those little 'wings' kids wear on their arms in the pool to help them swim? Ducks practically have those built into their feathers. The birds' feathers are tightly interlocked with a system of barbs that hold air in. In addition to their waterproofing abilities, duck feathers possess another quality that helps them to float: They trap air.

Do a duck